"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
Marathon Fellowship is a multi-generational group focused on Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and serving others—both at Stonebriar Community Church. and through missions around the world.
We meet weekly on Sundays at 10:45 a.m. in B219. Our current teacher is Dr. Stephen Kim, Professor of Bible Exposition at Dallas Theological Seminary. Previous teachers include Dr. Stanley Toussaint, Wayne Stiles, and Rhome van Dyck. You can explore archives of their lessons on this website.
For questions about our class or weekly activities, email us at Marathon@MarathonFellowship.org.
Scripture: Book of Jude
Wayne Stiles teaches from the book of Jude that our walks with God are worth fighting for. We do that by guarding our time with God. and having mercy on those who are struggling.
Scripture: Book of 3 John
Wayne Stiles teaches from the book of 3 John five good lessons from a bad example, a man named Demetrius. By becoming a student of the lives of others, we can imitate the good and give God glory.
Scripture: Book of 2 John
Wayne Stiles teaches from the book of 2 John that we walk in truth when we love sacrificially. At the same time, sacrificial love should never sacrifice truth. God’s Word gives us the balance.
Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1
In “How to Navigate Change,” David Souther teaches that change is a tool the Lord uses to accomplish His purposes in our lives. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 3:1, Daniel 2:20-21, Romans 8:28, and other passages, Souther explains how God uses change to strengthen our character, draw us into greater holiness, and prepare us for new opportunities. He encourages believers to remember they are part of God’s bigger plan, embrace flexibility, take comfort in what never changes, avoid dwelling on the past, focus on impact rather than circumstances, and remain fruitful regardless of age.
Lesson Outline
For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
- Main Idea: Change is a tool the Lord uses to accomplish His will.
- “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. He controls
the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings.” (Daniel 2:20-21) - “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those
who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28)
- “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. He controls
- “How does God use change in our lives?”
- To strengthen your faith and make you more like Christ.
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. (James 1:2-3) - To bring you back into fellowship.
God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. (Hebrews 12:10) - To bring you to a new adventure or prepare you for one.
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.” (Genesis 50:20)
- To strengthen your faith and make you more like Christ.
- “How to navigate change”
- Remember that you are a small part of a bigger picture.
“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. ” (Isaiah 55:8) - Be flexible knowing that change is a natural part of following Jesus.
Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him. (Matthew 4:19-20) - Take courage in what won’t change.
Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8) - Don’t dwell on the past.
Don’t long for “the good old days.” This is not wise. (Ecclesiastes 7:10) - Focus more on the Gospel than the circumstances.
And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. (Philippians 1:12) - Embrace that you are never too old for fruit-producing change.
But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted to the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. (Psalm 92:12-14)
- Remember that you are a small part of a bigger picture.
Remember, as the winds of change come your way, never stop ___________, never stop ___________, never stop ___________.
Scripture: Jude
With Jude’s call to contend for the faith, we examine the central theme of the cross and Jesus’ substitutionary atonement and all it accomplishes.
Scripture: Jude
With Jude’s call to contend for the faith, Rhome Van Dyck examines the central theme of the cross and Jesus’ substitutionary atonement and all it accomplishes.
Scripture: 1 John 1:1-2:2
Wayne Stiles teaches from the book of 1 John that obedience is the key to fellowship with God, and when we blow it, confession restores our fellowship. Why? Christ’s intercession for us provides the continual security we need.
Scripture: Selections from 2 Peter
Wayne Stiles teaches from 2 Peter that we can forget the essentials—so determine to read God’s Word repeatedly. And we never stand still spiritually—so determine to grow.
Scripture: Selections from 1 Peter
Wayne Stiles teaches from the book of 1 Peter that God helps us keep going when we’re ready to quit by reminding us that our trials, though necessary, are temporary—and we have an amazing future hope that is certain.
Scripture: Selections from the Book of James
Wayne Stiles teaches from the Book of James how to actually live the Bible. God’s goal for us is to read the Word—yes—but then what?